You should also report your actions taken under these licences to Natural England following the guidance on the report form.

There’s a limit to the number of licences issued each year for photographing Schedule 1 birds when nesting. Natural England will only issue extra licences for exceptional circumstances. Check whether you’re likely to get a licence by contacting Natural England.

Ringing or marking any birds to record breeding success

You’ll need to apply for a schedule 1 permit to disturb Schedule 1 protected birds for ringing or marking for science from the British Trust for Ornithology.

Disturbing protected animals

Only certain animals are protected from disturbance, such as European Protected Species and those listed in Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 when they’re occupying shelters or places of refuge.

Help us improve GOV.UK

Help us improve GOV.UK

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.